As the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of excitement. Enter my latest endeavor: No Sugar Applesauce Cookies! These delightful treats are perfect for anyone yearning for a guilt-free bite, especially if you’re navigating gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Using unsweetened applesauce and rich coconut oil, this recipe offers a chewy texture that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Not only do these cookies come together quickly, but they also enable you to indulge in something sweet without the sugar crash. Picture them as a cozy snack alongside your morning coffee or a delightful dessert after dinner. Ready to take your baking to the next level? Let’s get started!
Why Try No Sugar Applesauce Cookies?
Healthier Alternative: These cookies are a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the added sugar.
Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients, they’re perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous baking sessions.
Versatile Flavor: Enhance with chocolate chips or dried fruit for a delightful twist, making them perfect for any palate.
Diet-Friendly: Ideal for gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-carb diets, everyone can enjoy these wholesome bites.
Crowd-Pleaser: Enjoy them as a snack or dessert, and impress your friends and family with these delicious cookies!
If you love baking and want more guilt-free recipes, check out my delicious Pumpkin Maple Cookies or indulge in Chocolate Oat Cookies.
No Sugar Applesauce Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Unsweetened Applesauce – Acts as a natural sweetener and moisture source. Use no sugar added to avoid excess sweetness.
• Melted Coconut Oil – Provides fat for structure and moisture. Substitution: Avocado oil can be used, but it may alter the flavor.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and provides structure. Room temperature eggs mix better.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness. None, but can enhance aroma.
For the Dry Mixture
• Gluten Free All Purpose Flour Blend – Provides structure to the cookies while ensuring they’re gluten-free. Ensure it’s a good blend for baking.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise. Ensure it’s fresh for maximum effectiveness.
• Baking Powder – Works in tandem with baking soda for a light texture. Check expiration date for effectiveness.
• Salt – Enhances flavors in the cookies. A small pinch for balanced taste.
For Optional Add-ons
• Dairy Free Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and chocolate flavor. Optional; omit if allergic or prefer plain cookies.
These No Sugar Applesauce Cookies are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy treat that fits perfectly into a variety of dietary lifestyles!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No Sugar Applesauce Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to ensure your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies don’t stick. This preparation will create a smooth surface for baking and make cleanup easy after those delicious cookies come out of the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, room-temperature egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, cohesive mixture. This step is critical as it forms the base of your cookies, ensuring they remain moist and packed with flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until well combined, ensuring that there are no lumps. This mixture is essential for the structure of your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies, allowing them to rise beautifully as they bake.
Step 4: Integrate Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Take your time with this step to avoid over-mixing, which can lead to a tougher cookie. The batter should be smooth and slightly thickened, indicating that it’s ready for the next step.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
If you choose to include dairy-free chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this point. Use a spatula to gently incorporate the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed without clumping. This added touch enhances the flavor of your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies, making them even more delightful.
Step 6: Portion the Cookies
Using a rounded tablespoon, scoop portions of the cookie dough onto your prepared cookie sheet, spacing them at least two inches apart. This will allow room for the cookies to spread as they bake. Aim for uniform sizes for even baking, ensuring each cookie is a satisfying bite.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
With slightly damp fingers or the back of a spoon, flatten the tops of the cookie dough mounds gently. This step helps the No Sugar Applesauce Cookies bake evenly and results in a pleasing shape, creating that perfect balance between softness and chewiness once they’re baked.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, and look for golden edges and a slightly firm center to indicate they’re done. The aroma wafting from the oven will be irresistible, signaling that your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies are nearly ready.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the tray for about 5 minutes. This helps them set before transferring. Once they are slightly firm, carefully use a spatula to transfer the cookies to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before serving to achieve the best texture.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Once completely cooled, savor them as a hearty snack or a delightful dessert. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh, allowing you to indulge in these healthy treats whenever you desire.
Expert Tips for No Sugar Applesauce Cookies
• Room Temperature Eggs: Using room temperature eggs ensures a smoother batter and better emulsification with the wet ingredients, creating a perfect cookie texture.
• Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing when combining the dry and wet ingredients; this helps maintain a soft and chewy consistency in your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Ovens can vary greatly, so closely monitor your cookies while baking. Adjust time as needed to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.
• Proper Cooling: Let your cookies cool briefly on the tray before transferring to a cooling rack. This allows them to set properly, ensuring they don’t crumble.
• Store Wisely: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well, so save some for later indulgence!
• Flavor Adaptations: Experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruits to personalize your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies, enhancing the flavor and texture to your liking.
Storage Tips for No Sugar Applesauce Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the No Sugar Applesauce Cookies at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
Reheating: To retain their delightful softness, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These No Sugar Applesauce Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients, then cover it tightly and refrigerate to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can scoop the cookie dough onto the sheet and freeze them for up to 3 months; just place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, place the frozen cookie dough on a baking sheet, and bake for a few extra minutes until golden. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures your cookies are just as delicious as when freshly made!
No Sugar Applesauce Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies, making them uniquely yours!
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Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a hearty crunch. The cookies gain an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the applesauce.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap in 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries instead of chocolate chips for a fruity surprise. This adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture that’ll keep you coming back for more.
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Spicy Enjoyment: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor. Just imagine the aroma of spices filling your kitchen—pure bliss!
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Coconut Delight: Replace half the flour with shredded unsweetened coconut for an extra chewy texture and tropical taste. You’ll love the flavored ribbons of coconut throughout the cookies!
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Peanut Butter Boost: Substitute the melted coconut oil with an equal amount of creamy peanut butter for a nutty richness. It’s a delicious twist that adds protein and satisfaction to each bite.
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Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the cookie flavor. This twist takes your cookies from cozy to refreshing!
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Sugar-Free Sweetener: If you desire a touch more sweetness, consider adding a natural sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit in place of some of the applesauce. Adjust to taste for your perfect balance.
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Choco-Lover’s Dream: Try using dark chocolate chips instead of dairy-free ones. This creates a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor, making it a true indulgence for chocolate lovers!
These variations not only keep your baking exciting but also allow you to tailor them to your taste preferences. Ready to experiment? While you’re here, why not check out my irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies or my scrumptious Soft Pumpkin Cookies? Enjoy the journey of baking!
What to Serve with No Sugar Applesauce Cookies
Enjoy these delightful cookies! Here’s how to complete your meal or snack experience.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of plain or Greek yogurt balances the sweetness, providing a tangy contrast that enhances the cookie’s chewiness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of berries and citrus adds vibrancy and freshness, creating a perfect palate cleanser. Try mixing in some mint for an aromatic touch!
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Cup of Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea pairs beautifully, complementing the subtle flavors of the cookies without overpowering them.
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Nut Butter Spread: Spread a layer of almond or peanut butter on a warm cookie for an added protein punch, marrying creamy and chewy textures deliciously.
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Chocolate Almond Milk: Serve alongside a chilled glass of chocolate almond milk for a sweet, rich pairing that feels indulgent yet mindful.
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Dark Chocolate Squares: Enjoying a square of high-quality dark chocolate alongside these cookies can enhance your experience with rich and deep flavors.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream on top adds a delightful creaminess, making them even more decadent without extra sugar.
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Fresh Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed cinnamon apples will echo the apple flavor of the cookies, making for a beautifully paired, sweetly spiced treat.
No Sugar Applesauce Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of applesauce should I use for this recipe?
I highly recommend using unsweetened applesauce to avoid any added sugar, which keeps these cookies healthy. Look for applesauce that specifically states “no sugar added” on the label to ensure you’re getting the right product.
How should I store my No Sugar Applesauce Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This method retains the ideal soft and chewy texture. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them as detailed below!
Can I freeze No Sugar Applesauce Cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
What can I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If your dough is a bit dry, it might be due to too much flour or not enough moisture from the applesauce. Try adding a tablespoon of water or a little more applesauce, mixing well. If the dough is too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour until you achieve a manageable consistency.
Are there any common allergies associated with the ingredients?
Yes, while these cookies are gluten-free and dairy-free, they can still be a concern for those with allergies. Always double-check that the gluten-free flour blend and chocolate chips you use are certified allergy-friendly, and remember to omit the chocolate chips if there’s an issue with chocolate allergies.
Delicious No Sugar Applesauce Cookies You’ll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour blend, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined.
- If desired, fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them at least two inches apart.
- Flatten the tops of the dough mounds slightly with damp fingers or a spoon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is slightly firm.
- Remove from the oven and cool on the tray for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, enjoy your No Sugar Applesauce Cookies!
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